The proposed bill, titled the "Fostering with Dignity Act," aims to enhance the dignity and emotional well-being of children placed in out-of-home care by ensuring they are provided with suitable luggage for transporting their personal belongings. The bill mandates that the Department of Children and Families (DCF) supply each child entering out-of-home care or changing placements with a durable piece of luggage, which will belong to the child and cannot be reclaimed by the department or retained by any adult. The DCF is also required to collaborate with community-based care lead agencies and other entities to facilitate the distribution of luggage and maintain records of instances where trash bags are used for transporting children's belongings.

Additionally, the bill requires the DCF to submit an annual report to the Legislature starting July 1, 2027, detailing the use of trash bags for transporting children's belongings and the reasons for not providing appropriate luggage. The DCF is authorized to accept gifts, grants, and donations to support this initiative, and the bill amends existing statutes to align with these new provisions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 306 Filed: 39.401, 39.4085